The story will span 35 years in McCullers’ life including her bouts of illness, torrid marriages, and the escapism she found in her work. Famed figures who were a part of her life include her best friend Tennessee Williams, her protege Truman Capote, and her roommate Gypsy Rose Lee.

McCullers penned such classic novels as “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter,” “Reflections in a Golden Eye,” “The Member of the Wedding” and the short story collection “The Ballad of the Sad Cafe”, most of which were set in the American South and dealt with outcasts and those feeling spiritually bereft.

Deborah Kampmeier will direct and will produce alongside Troy Johanson and Blair Breard. Shooting kicks off in Spring next year.